An Improved Sensitive Nonselective Radiofrequency Detector for Gas Chromatography

SUMMARY A dielectric-constant-response radiofrequency detector for gas chromatography is described. The detector is extremely sensitive to organic vapors; it should display general response to compounds which have a dielectric constant different than the carrier gas. Limits of detection have been significantly decreased when compared to previously suggested designs for radio-frequency detectors. The detector is physically small and readily compatible with commercially available chromatographs. A theory for the signal response of the detector is proposed.